Herring and sprat were by far the most landed species in Sweden in 2025, underlining the continued dominance of pelagic fisheries in the country’s fishing sector.
According to figures published by Swedish fisheries outlet Njord, Swedish vessels landed 51,477 tonnes of herring and 48,361 tonnes of sprat during the year. Sandeel ranked third with 27,438 tonnes, while blue whiting reached 3,581 tonnes. Mackerel landings totalled 2,035 tonnes.
Most pelagic species were caught for the fishmeal industry. The report said sprat, sandeel, blue whiting and part of the herring catch were directed towards fishmeal production.
Pelagic trawls dominate catches
The vast majority of Swedish fish landings were taken by trawl fisheries. Pelagic species such as herring, sprat, mackerel and blue whiting were mainly caught with pelagic trawls. Some smaller vessels also used purse seines for herring and sprat fisheries.
Total landings caught by trawl gear reached 138,817 tonnes in 2025, far ahead of all other fishing methods. The
North Sea and the Baltic Sea are key fishing grounds
The report said herring for human consumption was mainly caught in the North Sea and Skagerrak, while Baltic Sea catches supplied both fishmeal production and food markets. Blue whiting fisheries took place in the North Atlantic, while sandeel fisheries were concentrated in the North Sea.